Startup fund raised to Tk400cr
The government has proposed a Tk400 crore allocation in the FY2026-27 budget to support startups, promote women’s entrepreneurship, strengthen women’s empowerment and encourage youth-led enterprises as part of its broader strategy to foster entrepreneurship-driven economic growth.
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury disclosed the allocation while responding to a question from Dhaka-4 lawmaker Syed Joynul Abedin in Parliament on Monday.
The minister said the government is expanding financial support programmes aimed at creating self-employment opportunities and encouraging entrepreneurship among young people and women.
He noted that concessional loans are currently being provided to young entrepreneurs through the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Karma Sangsthan Bank.
In addition, Startup Bangladesh Limited, operating under the ICT Division, along with several financing schemes managed by the Finance Division, is facilitating low-interest loans for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country.
According to the finance minister, the proposed allocation represents a significant increase from the revised FY2025-26 budget, which earmarked Tk200 crore for the startup fund.
The new allocation effectively doubles the previous amount, reflecting the government’s increased focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and private-sector-led growth.
The minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen social safety net programmes, noting that both the number of beneficiaries and the level of financial assistance have been gradually expanded in recent years.
He said the government is considering further broadening the coverage and allocations of key social protection schemes in the next fiscal year.
These include the Family Card and Farmer Card programmes, old-age allowances, allowances for widows and distressed women, and disability benefits designed to support low-income and vulnerable groups.
The proposed measures form part of a wider effort to promote inclusive economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, expanding employment opportunities and enhancing social protection for disadvantaged sections of society.
